fa 



The PoUy-Wi 
Club 



-BV- 



LAURA M. ADAMS 




PRICE 25 CENTS 



Eldridge Entertainment House 

Franklin, Ohio ^n:^ Denver.^ Colo. 

944 So, Logan Street 



New JuvenQe Entertainments 



A-B-C-Capers 

By Soemple. Here is an attractive and novel number 
for the Primary Grades or Kindergarten. Little Tim's 
despair in not being able to master letters is turned 
to keen interest by the antics of the alphabet troupe. 
Plays about 20 minutes. Price, 2Sc. 

Emily's Dream 

By Mary Frix Kidd. This is the story of ,a Geogra- 
phy lesson, which, instead of being irksome, was, 
through the medium of a Good Fairy, made very in- 
teresting. This is done by presenting a Geographical 
Pageant. For a large number of children, who pre- 
sent drills, exercises, etc., in costumes of different 
nations. Time, about 1 hour. Price, 25c. 

The Love Flower 

By Bell Elliott Palmer. A very pretty exercise for 6 
or 10 girls and 1 boy. Suitable for Children's Day or 
Easter, and can be given either in or out of doors. 
Time, 10 minutes. Price, 15c. 

The Silver Sandals 

By Banche Thompson. Ths is a charming new play 
for 6 boys, 5 girls, fairies, peasants, attendants, etc. 
The Princess is downhearted and refuses to be con- 
soled. The fiddler plays, peasants do folk-dances, fai- 
ries drill, but not until she gets the silver sandals is 
she contented. Plays 1 hour or more. Price, 25c. 

When Betty Saw the Pilgrims 

By Margaret Howard. A pretty story showing how 
dissatisfied Betty was cured by her mother, w^ho tells 
the story of the hardships of the Pilgrims, which is 
illustrated by ten tableaux. Large numbers of chil- 
dren can be used. Plays about 30 minutes. Price, 
2Sc. 

Princess Rosy Cheeks 

By Effie Sammond Balph. A "s^od health" play for 
children, which is very impressive. Introduces Fresh 
Air Fairies, Soap and Water Fairies, Tooth Brush 
Brigade, Food Fairies, Rest Fairies, and others. Good- 
sized cast required with two older children. Plays 
about 1 hour. Price, 35c. 

Queen Loving Heart 

By Jean Ross. A splendid children's play, teaching 
many good lessons. A pretty story of the crowning of 
Loving Heart, her capture by the Indians and sub- 
sequent release, because of her kindness. Can be used 
for May Day play. 11 speaking parts, Indians, etc. 
Plays about 45 minutes. Price, 25c. 

Eldridge Entertainment House 

FRANKLIN, OHIO also DENVER, COLO. 

944 S. Logan St. 



The Polly-William Club 



By 
LAURA M. ADAMS 



PRICE 25 CENTS 
Copyright, 1922, Eldridge Entertainment House. 



ILI?. 



PUBLISHED BY 

ELDRIDGE ENTERTAINMENT HOUSE, 

FRANKLIN, OHIO DENVER, COLO 



-^^'•v 

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CHARACTERS 



Mrs. Harriet Weatherby — a victim of suffering widow- 
hood who makes life miserable for everybody. 

Miss Matilda — the widow's long-suffering sister. 

Dr. Strong — the family physician and village doctor — 
also the suitor for Miss Matilda's hand. 

Bridget O'Hara — maid in the Weatherby household. 



Dorothy 

Peggy 

Sara 

Jack 

Ruth 

Ted 

Bob 

Donald 



— Members of the Polly-William Club. 



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'CI.D 63226 

DCC 30 '22 



^« \ 



The Polly- William Club 



ACT I. 

Sceiie — Upstairs library in the Weatherby home. 

(Miss Matilda in rocking chair by library table, 
knitting. Enter Dr. Strong from another room, medicine 
grip in hand, froivn on his face. Miss Matilda looks up 
and half rises, but he gently forces her back into chair.) 

Miss Matilda — Well, Doctor, how is Harriet this 
morning? She thought her- heart was becoming affected. 
That's why I sent for you so early in the day. 

(While Miss M. is speaking, Bridget O'Hara passes 
door, duster and broom in hand, looks into room, chuck- 
les, hides behind curtain and listens.) 

Dr. S. — (irritably) Heart affected, fiddle-sticks! 
There isn't one blooming thing the matter with your 
sister, Matilda — not a thing, except an exaggerated ego. 

(Bridget looks out from curtain; throws up haTids 
tragically at last two words.) 

Matilda — Exaggerated what, Doctor? 

Dr. — Ego. By that I mean, Matilda, that she sim- 
ply thinks too much about herself — pities herself, ad- 
mires herself — imagines she has every ailment under the 
sun. 

(Bridget waves duster in high approval.) 

Matilda — (in shocked voice) But, Doctor Strong, 
you cannot mean what you say. Think how long my poor 
dear sister has been bed-ridden. It has been fifteen years 
since she could leave her bed — ever since the night Frank 
passed away. 

Dr. — Fifteen years since she would leave her bed, 
you mean, Matilda. Fifteen years since she would get 

S 



The Polhj-William Club 



out of bed and. open her windows and her soul to God's 
sunshine and blessings. Fifteen years of solid laziness 
— letting you slave your life out for her — fifteen years 
(bitterly) of life wasted for you and me. I tell you I'm 
sick and tired of it, Matilda. It's time something was 
done. 

(Bridget nods head vigorously and listens closely.) 

Matilda — (sadly) I never heard you speak like that 
before, doctor. 

Dr.- — (half smiling) Well, murder will out, Matil- 
da. Sometimes I feel like a pent-up volcano, after a 
visit with Harriet. 

Mrs. Weatherby — (from another room, in whining, 
fretful voice) Matilda! Matilda! Where are you? 
That's the way it is — nobody cares anything for me 
since poor dear Frank died. 

Matilda — (getting up hurriedly) Yes, dear Har- 
riet. I'll be there. You will excuse me. Dr. Strong. 

Dr. — Matilda, are you going to keep me waiting for- 
ever? 

(Bridget makes her escape as the doctor turns to- 
ward Matilda with hands outstretched.) 

Matilda — (nervously) Oh, I don't know, Doctor 
Strong — she is so helpless — 

Mrs. W. — Matilda! Matilda! Oh, my poor heart ! 

Matilda — (rushing from room) Oh, I must go to 
her. 

Dr. — (angrily, as he marches toward door) Heart! 
Humph! Hasn't got one. (Starts for door, almost bumps 
into Bridget as she enters innocently, duster and broom\ 
in hand.) 

BRIDGET: — Oh, excuse me, plase sir — shure and I 
want to get this room dusted before lunch for my poor 
Miss Matilda has no time for nothin' at all in the morn- 
in's but waitin' on Mrs. Weatherby. I'm thinkin' Miss 
Matilda needs medicine more than her sister, if you'll 
excuse me fer sayin' it, doctor. 



The Polly-William Club 



(Dr. Strong looks at her a Tnoment, then he comes 
closer to her and speaks confidentially.) 

Dr. — Bridget, you've been here a long time and 
you're a bright girl. Can't you think of some way to 
help Miss Matilda out of this trouble? Mrs. Weatherby 
needs something to rouse her — you understand me, 
Bridget? {Bridget nods and grins.) Something — ah — 
very unusual. Perhaps we can all think hard and come to 
some conclusion soon. 

Bridget — Sure, sir, I'd think me pate clean off to 
help Miss Matilda out of hsr troubles. Mrs. Weatherby 
gits wurse all the toime. She won't have nobody comin' 
in. The house is like a dith house fer Miss Matilda, and 
nowadays Mrs. Weatherby is that scairt o' nights 
a-dreamin' of ghosts and the loike that she keeps us in a 
torment with her bad flutterin' heart ivery mornin'. 

Dr. — So that's it, is it? Well, perhaps she needs a 
real live ghost to wake her up and shake some of her no- 
tions out of her head. 

Bridget — A real live ghost, Dr. Strong? Be there 
any walkin' 'round these parts?. 

Dr. — (laughing) Well, Bridget, I haven't met any 
but you never can tell when they'll pop up. By the way, 
I wonder if she would let the Polly-William Club in to 
see hsr? 

Bridget — {holding up her hands in horror) The 
Polly-William Club! That's the new club over at the 
Plumfield Academy, ain't it Doctor? 

Dr. — Yes, Bridget, and it's one of the livest, mer- 
riest clubs of boys and girls that this old town of Plum- 
field ever had. They're a regular tonic — ^worth all these 
medicines put together on cases like Mrs. Weatherby's. 

. Bridget — Well, I heard Miss Matilda a-tellin' her 
sister about them young critters one day and how the 
minister said mebby she would let the club come to see 
her. Blitherin' blazes, Dr. Strong, you should ha' seen 
her face ! She riz up off the piller and pintsd her finger 



The Polly-William Club 



at poor Miss Matilda. "So that is the way you make 
light of my grief, Matilda," says she — ^them wuz her 
words — "bringin' in a crowd of hoodlum, laughin' boys 
and girls to trample on my heart. You know, Matilda, I 
haven't laughed since my poor, dear Frank died." 

Dr. — Jiminy Crickets, she shall laugh. Bridget, you 
stand by me, and I'll have that Polly-William Club here 
before the week's out. (Starts for door.) 

Bridget — (delightedly) Do yer drunedest — I mean 
yer best, sir — and Bridget O'Hara follows on. 

CURTAIN 



ACT II. 

(Bridget is alone in library, dusting and singing to 
herself, a bright catchy tune. Suddenly her face sobers. 
Stands still.) 

Bridget — (to herself) Sing away, Bridget O'Hara 
enjiy yerself this mornin' fer this afternoon ye'll be at- 
tendin' worse than a funeral. This is Ladies' Aid Day ye 
remember — the wan day in the month my poor Miss Ma- 
tilda goes out to the meetin' and stays to tay. May all 
the Saints presarve me timper this day while I kape 
Mrs. Weatherby company. Sure and the — 

(Bridget jumps and gets back to ivork as Miss Mor- 
tilda and the Doctor enter. Doctor seems in high spirits.) 

Matilda^ — (anxiously) You think it will be per- 
fectly safe for me to leave poor Harriet today, do you 
Dr. Strong? If it wasn't such an important meeting — 

Dr. — Go, by all means, Matilda dear. I will give 
Harriet a thorough examination this morning and leave 
plenty of medicine to last until you get back this even- 
ing. I know Bridget here, will prove as faithful as ever 
— eh, Bridget? 

(Gives Bridget a knowing wink and she catches his 
mood.) 



The Polly-William Club 



Bridget — Sure, doctor — I'll shtir me stumps to 
make life wan merry drame for the pore dear lady, un- 
til Miss Matilda gits back. Don't you be worryin' about 
her ma'am. You go and enjiy the Ladies' Aid and help 
git the box off to the haythen. 

(Matilda laughs and pats Bridget's shoulder.) 

Matilda — I'm sure it's very good of you, Bridget. 
You lift a load off my shoulders. Well, Doctor, I will go 
in to Harriet and you can come in in a few minutes to 
see her. She thought her heart fluttered more than us- 
ual this morning. She dreams so much of poor Frank 
lately. 

Dr. — (muttering to himself) Indigestion — too fat 
and lazy. (As Matilda leaves the room, he hurries over 
to Bridget and whispers) Bridget O'Hara, our chance 
is now or never. The Polly-William Club is down- 
stairs — hush — (Bridget jumps into the air) — they 
want to get their cue from you — 

Bridget — Their what, sir? (Looks at duster.) 
Dr. — (impatiently) Their cue. I mean they want 
you to tell them all you can about Mrs. Weatherby's 
queer ways (speaking plainly and slowly) so that they 
may form some plans. See? 

(Bridget nods head, grinning.) 

Bridget — I can do that. Doctor. 

DR.^Just right. Then they will come up early this 
evening while Miss Matilda (looks totvard door) is out. 
She knows nothing about it, understand — and work out 
their plans. I am not busy this morning and I shall keep 
Miss Matilda and Mrs. Weatherby engaged for a half 
hour in the bedroom, while you keep the club in here. 
Shut the door and don't let them get noisy, Bridget. You 
stay here and I'll get them up in no time. Sh-h! (He 
leaves the room and Bridget doubles up with merriment.) 

Bridget — Shure, and this is more fun than a whole 
box of monkeys. Hold fast Bridget O'Hara — hold fast 
goin' 'round the curve. 



The Polly-William Club 



(Enter the Polly-William Club. ' They' steal m,- 
some on tip-toe, looking furtively about, others gig- 
gling, hands up to mouth; one or two of the boys oii 
hands and knees, at ivhich others titter, etc.) 

{Bridget watches in groiving delight. Shuts door.) 
Dorothy — (going over to Bridget and laying hand 
kindly on arm, in low tone, but clea/rly, so that audience 
can hear ivithovt difficulty) So this is Bridget O'Hara? 
Glad to know you, Bridget. Let me introduce you to the 
Polly-William Club. 

{Bridget curtsies and Club all bow profoundly. 
Chorus of "Glad to know you, Bridget," etc.) 

Ted — Come now, fellow-members — down to busi- 
ness — only have a few minutes to find out all about our 
Lady of Mystery. 

Bob — Right you are, Ted. Well, Bridget, you are 
our friend for life if you help us out. Dr. Strong just 
picked us up on the pavement outside — told us we were 
to bewitch Mrs. Weatherby tonight, and that you would 
tell us how. 

Bridget — (scratching her head) Indade, sir, it 

would take the old boy himself to bewitch the loikes of 
her; but I'll help you all I can. 

Peggy — Just what is the matter with her, Bridget? 
We want to know what to do to cheer her up, you know. 
Ruth, get out your note book. 

Bridget — (disgustedly) The matter with her, 
ma'am — ther ain't nothin' the matter with her, but 
(stops and meditates a moment) eggacerated ago. (the 
las.t two words triumphantly.) 

Donald — (tvhile some of the others show signs of 
suppressed merriment) I guess you mean exaggerated 
ego, Bridget. Is that it? 

Bridget — (grinning sheepishly) Shure — that's it. 
You see I said it in Irish. But r'aly, the doctor said 
them words hisself. He said Mrs. Weatherby can get out 
of bed if she wants to — but she won't. 



The Polly-William Club 



Sara — For pity's sake! Won't? How long has she 
been in bed, Bridget? 

Bridget — Fifteen years, ma'am. Ever since her hus- 
band died. 

(Club shows various signs of amazement and dis- 
gust.) 

Jack^ — Fifteen years! Jumping catfish! 

Bridget — Yes, sir, and all that time Miss Matilda 
has waited on her, hand and foot — never goes out except 
one day a month, and dassn't so much as riz up that 
pianny lid to be enjyin' a bit of a tune. 

Dorothy — {in a businesslike way) Put that down, 
Ruth — no music allowed. Sounds as if she used to like 
music, in the old days, eh, Bridget? 

Bridget — Shure she did. Miss Matilda says she 
and her husband used to sing and play every night. She 
was particular fond of Old Black Joe and Kintucky Home. 

Dorothy — (nodding at Ruth) Old Black Joe and 
My Old Kentucky Home, Ruth. Go on Bridget. We are 
coming on finely. 

(Ruth writes them down.) 

Bridget— (rubbing her head) Well, let me see — 

Sara — What does she do with herself all day Brid- 
get? 

Bridget — Nary a thing but eat, shlape, pick at can- 
dy and read poultry. 

(Suppressed giggles) 

Jack — Hold on there, Bridget. Did you get that, 
Ruthie? The old Whippersnapper likes candy — (Ruth 
writes it down.) — also poetry. Any particular brand of 
verse, Bridget? 

Bridget — Well, (doubtfully) I guess you mane 
what kind of poultry she do be readin'? 

Jack — (nodding) Just right, Bridget. You'll be 
famous yet. 



10 The Polly-William Club 

Bridget — Well, she reads wan pome out of a gold 
and white book more than anythin' else — I do be sick of 
hearin' it day after day and sometimes in the night. 

Bob — What might it be about, Bridget? 

Bridget — About a female named Annabel Lee. She 
says her husband used to read it to her before they were 
married. 

Peggy — (eagerly) Oh, Ruth, put it down — he;r fav- 
orite poem, Annabel Lee. I know that poem already. 

Ruth — We'll soon have the story of her life. What 
about some of her dislikes, Bridget? Does she seem to 
fear or dislike anything? 

Bridget — She seems to dislike the hull round world 
and everything in it but herself, ma'am — hates the sun- 
light to come into her room, hates noise, visitors (Ruth 
writes rapidly) hates to see anybody happy — ^why, 
there's poor Miss Matilda (ivhisperingly, looking to- 
ward door) and Dr. Strong. They've been lovers for 
years and years, and Miss Matilda don't never dare to 
let on or Mrs. Weatherby wouldn't never have Dr. 
Strong come near the place. 

Ted — The plot thickens! By all means, put that 
down, Ruthie. That will please your sentimental soul. 
(Dodges a pillow that Ruth throws at him. Dorothy cau- 
tion.^ silence.) 

Bridget — As fer fear, she's the biggest old fraid-cat 
I ever seed. Every night she's afraid to go to shlape fer 
fear her husband's bantum shpirit — 

Ruth — Her what, Bridget? 

Jack — (looking at Ruth) Stupid, she means phan- 
tom spirit. Go ahead, Bridget. 

Bridget — Fer fear his phantom shpirit will come 
back to haunt her. 

Bob — (nudges Ruth) Capital. That may work as a 
last resource. Be sure you get that, Ruth. Her hus- 
band's spirit haunts her. (Ruth giggles hut writes.) 



The Po lly- William Club 11 

Dorothy — (rising) Well, Bridget, I think we have 
gotten the main facts of this very interesting case, and 
we will steal away now to our club room and work out 
a scheme for tonight. How long will Miss Matilda be 
gone? Dr. Strong neglected to mention that. 

Bridget^ — Until about half past nine or ten o'clock, 
ma'am. 

Donald — (turning to others) Well, suppose Brid- 
get looks for us about 7:30. Be sure, Bridget, that she 
is — ah — (embarrassed laugh) someway fixed up to see 
us. 

Bridget — Oh, she'll be in here, sir, in a kimony, on 
the couch yonder. Once a month we carry her in here, 
on Ladies' Aid day, and she stays until Miss Matilda 
gets back. Dr. Strong comes in and helps get her back 
to bed. That's as far as she's been for fifteen years. 

Donald — I see. Well, we want to thank you a heap 
of times, Bridget (presses bill into her hand) for giving 
us such valuable information. 

(Mrs. Weatherby's voice in distance, high and fret- 
ful) 

Mrs W. — Bridget, Bridget O'Hara, where are you? 
No, doctor (tearfully) you won't do. I want Bridget. 
Nobody cares anything for my wishes since poor dear 
Frank died. 

(At first call, Bridget opens door softly, hand up to 
mouth to caution silence, and they all listen.) 

Ted — Some voice! 

Bridget — Coming, Mrs. Weatherby. (Waves Imnd 
and disappears.) 

Sara — Come on — quick. Miss Matilda may appear 
next. Quietly, now — one, two, three, go! (They steal 
out on tip-toe, etc., as before.) 

CURTAIN 



12 The Polly-William Club 

ACT III. 

(Mrs. W. on couch. Dressed in kimona, hair in 
braids, reading the paper. On chair beside her, a gold 
and ivhite book of poems and box of candy at ivhich she\ 
nibbles. Bridget is coming through door loith cup of 
tea. 

Mrs. W. — (in fretful tone) What time is it, Brid- 
get? It seems months since Matilda left this afternoon. 
I don't see why she needs to fill boxes for heathen. I'm 
sure charity begins at home. 

Bridget — (as she puts tray before Mrs. W.) It's 
half-past seven. Well, I do think, Mrs. Weatherby, she 
does her share at home and the haythen ought to have 
a right to her sarvices once a month at laste. 

Mrs. W. — (angrily) Oh, you do, do you, Bridget 
O'Hara. That's alvi^ays the way it is — nobody sympa- 
thizes with me. They'd rather send their sjonpathies 
a thousand miles away, while I lie here in suffering sil- 
ence. (Wipes her eyes.) That tea is miserable, Brid- 
get. (Sips tea.) Here, take it away. I cannot drink it. 
I have no appetite anyway. (Martyr-like ma7iner.) 

Bridget — Well, now, ma'am, no wonder yer appe- 
tite is gone — you've only an hour ago ate two big chops, 
a swate and a white potaty, peas and 'smats, and a fruit 
salad and two big pieces of chocolate cake, Yer stom- 
ach be just clean full, that's all. 

Mrs, W. — (angrily) I do think, Bridget, that you 
grow more impudent every day. Did you count every 
piece of food that went into my mouth tonight? 

Bridget — No, ma'am. (Aside.) I'd a lost count in 
live minutes. (Grins as she goes toward door. Bell 
rings. Bridget jumps as if in surprise. Mrs. W. half 
rises to sitting posture.) 

Mrs. W. — Who can that be, Bridget, at this un- 
earthly hour of the night? Doesn't everybody in Plum- 
field know that there is an invalid in this house? 

Bridget — (as she disappears ivith tray) Sure and 



The Polly-William Club 13 

they ought to know, ma'am. I'll fix their feet if they 
don't. {Leaves door open. Mrs. W. lies back on pillow. 
Turns head toward door as she hears sound of voices.) 

Bridget — (outside) But, boys and girls, I know 
the dear lady cannot see you. She niver, niver — 

Voices — Oh, yes, she will. Never mind, Bridget — 
we'll take the responsibility, etc. (Bridget appears at 
door, holding the arm of Donald. Others push in mer- 
rily.) 

Bridget — I've done me best, ma'am — but they 
would be shlippin' through the front door and comin' 
straight up to you. 

Mrs. W. — (in high-pitched tone, hiding her face in 
both hands) Take them away, Bridget — take them away 
I say. You knoiv I haven't looked upon the forms of vis- 
itors since my poor dear husband died. 

Donald — (going toward couch) But we are just a 
bunch of young folks — the Polly-Bills, you know, Mrs. 
Weatherby. We heard that you were bed-ridden, and 
thought we might come in and cheer you up. Are you 
alone tonight? 

Mrs. W. — (hands still over eyes) Oh, go away — go 
away! I cannot talk to you. I cannot look upon the 
faces of strangers. I have seen no one outside the fam- 
ily, except my physician, for fifteen years. 

Ruth — (coming near Mrs. W. with bouquet) Well, 
you surely will look at these flowers we have brought 
you. Flowers bring so many messages of cheer and 
love. 

Mrs. W. — (slight shriek) Flowers! Oh, do take 
them away from here, Bridget. I can smell them — just 
the very fragrance that my poor Frank loved! Oh, how 
could you be so cruel? (Turns face away. Ruth 
throws up hands in despair as Bridget carries bouquet 
out of the room, sniffing them lovingly. Whispers to 
Ruth.) 

BRIDGET: — Miss Matilda will be loving them, ma'am. 
She jist dotes on flowers. (Ruth smiles.) 



14 The Polly-WiUiam Club 

Bob — If I had married a wife (girls giggle) and 
had then gone off and kicked the bucket (shocked scream 
from Mrs. W. Dorothy furiously pokes Boh) — pardon 
me — I mean had I then passed on to a better world, 
{with mock seriousness) I'd want my wife to have a 
whole florist shop around her to cheer her up. Think of 
her loss! (Places hand tragically on chest.) 

Mrs. W. — (face stiU averted) Oh, you are too 
young to understand. 

Bob — (innocently) To understand what, dear Mrs. 
Weatherby ? 

Mrs W. — (wailingly) Oh, take him away, Bridget! 

(Bridget has come back to the room and is thor- 
oughly enjoying the scene. Bob moves farther away.) 

Sara — (coming forward with "Polly Anna" in her 
hand) Here is someone who understands, Mrs. Weath- 
erby. (Mrs. W. turns head and peers cautiously under 
her arm.) Eleanor Porter understands human suffer- 
ing as many of us who are younger do not. She has 
written this wonderful little book that has cheered thou- 
sands of hearts and put new life into tired folks. We 
have brought Polly Anna for you to read. (Holds it to- 
ward Mrs. W., ^vho angrily waves it away.) 

Mrs. W. — Polly Anna, indeed! That book Matilda 
told me about — and Dr. Strong, too. Has a whole lot of 
talk about playing the Glad Game in it — as if anybody 
chained fast to a bed for fifteen years could play the 
Glad Game — and their beloved husband gone, too. It's 
preposterous ! 

Ted — Did you ever try to get up and walk, dear 
lady? 

(Some of the girls giggle at Ted's serious tone.) 

Mrs. W. — Try to get up and walk? Did I ever hear 
of such impertinence. Do you think I want to lie here 
aad suffer? 

Ted — What do you suffer with — indigestion? 

Mrs. W. — Oh, everything. My heart chiefly. 



The Polly-William Club 15 



Peggy — Perhaps if you just tried — the tiniest little 
bit of a walk, you know — (coaxingly). 

Mrs. W, — (turning her face away again, handker- 
chief to eyes) Bridget, you simply must show these 
young people to the door. I can stand no more tonight. 

Jack — Well, we mustn't wear out our welcome. 
(Girls and boys smile, etc.) Perhaps you will turn me 
down, too. I brought you a box of chocolate buds, but 
of course if you have indigestion and heart trouble, and 
— well — everything — I suppose we will have to take 
them back (winks at others) and try to get rid of them 
ourselves. 

Mrs. W. — (turning quickly, but hands still shading 
her eyes, so that she tvill not see club members) Wilbur 
buds ! My, I haven't had a Wilbur Bud for years. They 
used to help my digestion so much after a meal — well, 
you may leave those — there on the chair beside me — 
thank you — and now I mu^t ask you all to go. You may 
have meant it kindly, but I never receive visitors. I suf- 
fer alone in my sorrowing widowhood and invalidism. 

Dorothy — (aside to Donald) You will have to do 
it, Don — there's no other way. (Don nods and slips out 
of room unknown to Mrs. W.) 

Dorothy — Well, good-night, Mrs. Weatherby. We 
are sorry if we have spoiled your evening. So many sick 
people in Plumfield are glad to have us cheer them up a 
bit, that we thought — 

Mrs. W. — (inten'upting irritably) Other people 
are not made like me. My feelings — 

Ted — Thank heaven for that! (Aside.) 

(Choru>s of voices as they follow Bridget to door.) 

Voices — Good-night, Mrs. Weatherby. 

Mrs. W. — Good-night. I hope you will go where you 
are wanted aiad needed hereafter. I need only my fam- 
ily and my physician. (Leans back on pillow relievediy, 
OS they pass ont. Eats Wilbur Buds and listens to their* 
chatter as they talk going through outride hall, etc. Stid- 



16 The Polly-William Club ^^ 

denly they all come rushing back into room followed by 
Bridget.) 

Bridget — {excitedly) Oh, I saw it, too, ma'am. It 
do be a rale bantum! 

Mrs. W. — {sitting up in bed) Bridget! What are 
you talking about? What is the matter? Why have these 
obnoxious young people returned? 

Ruth — She means a phantom, Mrs. Weatherby. 
{Mrs. W. screams.) A strange apparition {hurriedly) 
met us in the lower hall. It said something in a hollow 
voice — it — oh, dear! What shall we do? {Wrings her 
hands.) 

Bob — I think it followed us, too, Ruth. I looked be- 
hind me as we ran up the stairs — 

{Several Tnake alarmed exclamations and Mrs. W. 
cries out feebly.) 

Mrs. W. — Oh, do not leave me. I — 

Sara — {looking out of door) Oh, it's coming! It's 
coming! Shall I close the door? 

Bridget — Bantum spirits can go through anything. 
Ye'd better be leavin' the door alone. 

{Enter apparition cloaked from head to foot in dull, 
misty gray, death mask, tinted ashen gray, too. Mrs. W. 
gives faint shriek and covers head with couch cover. 
Then, as Apparition talks she looks' out xvith ever-in- 
creasing astonishment and listens intently, hands over 
her heart.) 

Apparition — {speaks as he enters, in hollou) tone) 

ANNABEL LEE 
It was many and many a year ago. 

In a kingdom by the sea. 
That a maiden there lived whom you may know 

By the name of Annabel Lee. 
And this maiden she lived with no other thought 

Than to love and be loved by me. 



The Polhj-William Club 17 

I was a child and she was a child, 

In this kingdom by the sea, 
But we loved with a love that was more than love, 

I and my Annabel Lee; 
With a love that the winged seraphs of heaven 
Coveted her and me. 

Mrs. W. — {in ghostly whisper) It is my husband's 
phantom form — just his size — his favorite poem! Oh, 
my poor, dear Frank, (imploringly) what is it that you 
want that you thus haunt me and terrify my soul? 

Spirit — {Don in sepulchral tones) I would, oh, Har- 
riet, that you arise and fulfill your destiny. For fifteen 
years of earthly time, you have tortured my soul. (Har- 
riet iveeps copiously.) with your mockery of grief. You 
have denied yourself — your many and varied talents — to 
a waiting world. You have shut up your heart to joy 
and gladness, to sunshine and beauty, love and poetry 
and music (very sloivly) flowers, the laughter of little 
children, the smiles of a brave and cheerful world — these 
have all been abandoned for a life of narrow selfishness 
and sin. Beware ! A worse fate awaits you if you will 
not heed my warning. 

Mrs. W. — (sitting up with arms outstretcehd) Oh^ 
my husband — my husband — I will try — indeed I will try. 

Spirit — (moving sloivly toward door) It is well. I 
can never come to you again. Take heed. Lif e_ is yours. 
Take it, ere Death (Harriet shivers) claims you. Life 
(very sloivly and distinctly in hollow tones) is love and 
sunshine — not gloom and sorrow. Take it. Arise and 
fulfill your destiny. Farewell. (Spirit disappears through 
door. All stand with' various expressions of dazed sur- 
prise on their faces. Mrs. W. falls back on couch and 
bursts into tears.) 

Bridget — (aside to club) This'll bring her around 
if nothin' else will. (Goes over to weeping invalid and 
kneels beside her. Talks in soothing voice.) There, 
there, Mrs. Weatherby, don't you be wastin' any more 



18 The Polly-William Club 

tears. Ye've shed buckets full already. Dry yer eyes 
and try a smile fer the swate bantum shpirit's sake. 

Mrs. W. — Oh, Bridget O'Hara, to think of those 
dreadful years! I thought I was paying proper respect 
to my dear departed husband, and here I have been tor- 
turing his soul! Oh, dear! Oh, dear! What shall I 
ever do? 

Bridget — Do, ma'am? Do jist about as far as I can 
see, v^^hat these young people have been wantin' you to 
do this very night. Thry to get out of yer bed and walk 
— then let them ris up the pianny lid and play some pur- 
ty music and have a good, old-fashioned Irish wake. 
That'll be a good beginnin'. 

(Mrs. Weatherby looks cautiously at some of the 
girls and boys in the background. Don has slipped in 
while Bridget was talking. Some of the club members 
shake hands with him in congratulation. He mops his 
forehead. Jack goes over to Mrs. W.) 

Jack — I'll tell you what, Mrs .Weatherby. You just 
make your dash for liberty while we are here. Ted, you 
come here and help me, and we'll get Mrs. Weatherby off 
the couch and let her try her feet on the floor. Girls, get 
a chair ready there, cushions and all. Slippers on Mrs. 
Weatherby? (She nods feebly.) All right then. Now, 
Ted, one, two, three — Go! (Mrs. W. lets them help her 
off the couch, takes a step or tivo with their hands guid- 
ing her, and falls back f ear f idly upon the couch groan- 
ing.) 

Ted — (encouragingly; others looking on in delight) 
That's fine, lady. Try again. Think how those years of 
torment are slipping away from your dear husband (Mrs. 
W. shivers and rises again.) as you move across the 
floor. 

Dorothy — (patting chair invitingly) See how 
comfy this looks now — right where you can enjoy the 
lamplight. Come on — ^you're doing bravely. 

(Mrs. W. moves slowly, uncertainly, across floor, the 
boys guiding her. At last she reaches it and sinks down 



The Po lly -William Club 19 

into chair. All clap. Bridget goes out and brings glass 
of vxtter.) 

Peggy— That's just finei, dear Mrs. Weatherby. Now, 
you will let us open your piano and sing to you, won't 
you? 

Mrs. W. — Oh, not that — never! 

Bob — What was that the phantom said to you about 
love — music — laughter — little children? What was it 
now? {As if trying to think.) 

Mrs. W. — {burying head in hands) So soon I had 
forgotten. {'Raises head resignedly.) Go on. Open the 
piano and sing — yes {dramatically) sing me My Old 
Kentucky Home. He loved that song dearly, too. 

{All sing and she joins them occasionally, wiping 
eyes. As they are singing, Matilda and the doctor ap- 
pear unseen at the door. Matilda, nearly sivoons at sight 
of Harriet, up, singing, etc. Dr. quiets her. They watch 
scene silently.) 

{As they finish, Bridget straightening cover on the 
couch, speaks eagerly.) 

Bridget — Would ye be singin' of {any pretty Irish 
song) ? I do be lovin' that little piece. 

Ruth — Surely, Bridget, we'll do that little thing for 
you. {All join in except Mrs. W., who sits and listens 
smilingly. Bridget keeps time tuith head, hands, feet.) 

Mrs. W. — {as they finish) That really is quite a 
catchy tune — you are a real entertaining lot of young 
folks, after all. I didn't think I ever would smile again. 
{Puts handkerchief to eyes.) 

Don — {hurriedly) Never mind what you thought 
an hour ago. You're another woman now, Mrs. Weath- 
erby. Sara, give her that little poem of yours, "Look 
up." 



20 The Polly-William Club 

Sara — {coming over to Mrs. W.) 
Keep believin' and believin' 
When you're blue and out o' sorts. 
Keep a-trustin' and a-trustin' 
When you're 'shamed to tell yer thorts. 

Keep a-lookin' up above you, 
See the patch o' blue up there? 
'Tain't all dark when that's a-showin', 
Sun's a-shinin' fine, somewhere. 

Jest because you're glum and "spepsy". 
D'ye think the Lord is that way, too? 
Bless yer heart. He's smilin' at you, 
Lovin' you clean thro' and thro'. 

Mrs. W. — (clasping hands) That is really fine, Sara 
my dear. Do you know any more? 

Dorothy — Oh, she knows lots, but she isn't going- 
to monopolize your admiration, Mrs. Weatherby. (Mrs. 
W. smiles comjjlacently.) 

Ted — How about these Polly-Bill verses, Mrs. 
Weatherby ? 

Stop yer crossin' over bridges 
That won't never come yer way. 
Don't turn mole-hills into mountains — 
While the sun shines, make yer hay! 

Stop yer musin' over troubles 
That are dead long years ago. 
Face about, and take a joy-ride, 
In the life yer livin' now. 

(M7^s. W. claps softly.) 

Dorothy — Jack, what was that remark you made 
tonight at the dinner table? You said somebody told 
you that the grouchiest — grouchiest — 



The Polly-William Club 21 

Jack — Oh — the grouchiest person known is the man 
who refuses to sleep on a feather pillow, for fear it will 
tickle him and make him laugh. 

(Mrs. W, laughs outright, then suddenly grows ser- 
ioUrS.) 

Mrs. W. — I guess I was pretty much like that my- 
self. I haven't smiled for fifteen years. 

Peggy — But you're going to smile all the rest of 
your days and be glad you have so many golden oppor- 
tunities. 

Ted — Yes, indeed, Mrs. Weatherby. As someone 
said, "when you have a sore throat, be glad you are not 
a giraffe. Be glad of everything. You have to be if you 
become an honorary member of this club. 

Sara — (eagerly) And you will be one, won't you, 
Mrs. Weatherby? 

Bob — Of course — she will jump at the chance. Look 
who we are. (Throws out chest. Mrs. W. smiles.) 

Mrs. W. — Just how do you become an honorary 
member of this club? I think it's at least worth trying 
for. 

Ruth — By learning and living our club motto — ■ 
that's all, Mrs. Weatherby. 

Don — That's all, Ruth; but it means a good bit — 
let me tell you. 

Mrs. W. — (leaning forivard interestedly) And what 
is your club motto, Ruth? You see, I'm beginning to 
know your names. 

Ruth — ^Say it, everybody. 

(SoTYie sitting, others standing, all say the verse to- 
gether, with meaning and spirit. Jack as "cheer leader.") 

All — Be jolly! Be happy! Be glad! 

Make other lives bright that were sad! 

Do your best to keep cheerful, 

And never be fearful. 

For life is a game — make it glad! 



22 The Polly-William Club 

Mrs. W.— (smiling) Glad! Glad! Glad! Do you 
young people think of nothing else? I guess if I join 
your club I'll have to read Polly Anna, after all, won't 
I? 

Peggy — (delightedly) Of course you will, and here 
it is again. (Puts in Mrs. W.'s hands.) 

Dr. — (from doorway) What is all this unseemly 
racket about? May we come in and join you? (Every- 
body turns and ivelcomes Dr. Strong and Matilda, who 
goes straight to Harriet and leans lovingly over clvavr. 
Harriet puts up arms and kisses Matilda.) 

Matilda — Harriet, I am too surprised and over- 
joyed for words. To see you once more your old smil- 
ing self — and out of bed — ^and young people here — and 
music. (Matilda kneels beside Harriet's chair, her head 
in Harriet's la/p and bursts into tears. Bridget wipes 
her own eyes and hurries from room, bringing back bOifi- 
quet. Dr. Strong watches Matilda.) 

Bridget — (looking pleadingly at Mrs. W.) May 
she have them in here, ma'am? Perhaps they'll cheer 
her up. (Mrs. W. nods and Bridget touches Matilda on 
shoulder.) Here, Miss Matilda, see what a be-auti-ful 
bouquet of flowers you've got. (Matilda looks up and 
smiles delightedly through her tears, as she takes flow- 
ers and stands up by Harriet's chair.) 

Ruth — Why, she looks like a bride with her lovely 
bouquet; doesn't she, girls? 

Jack — Leave it to Ruth — 

Dr. — (coming forward) No — (smiling) leave it to 
me, this time, Jack. I wonder, Harriet, if in this new 
game you are playing, there is any room for brides and 
grooms — 

Matilda — (in frightened and embarrassed tonee) 
Oh, Dr. Strong, not tonight, pleasel (Mrs. W. looks at 
both in amazement and then listens to the doctor.) 

Dr. — Yes, Matilda, tonight. I've put it off long 
enough. Fifteen years is a long courtship, eh, boys? 



The Polly-William Club 23 



(Boys nod, shake his hand, etc.) 

Mrs. W. — (half rising, then sitting back in chair 
again) Fifteen years ! But I don't understand, Matilda. 
You never told me that you and Dr. Strong were any- 
thing more than friends. 

Matilda — If I had, dear Harriet (re-proachfully) 
what would you have done? 

Mrs. W. — (covering face with hands) True — 
true! What a selfish wretch I have been. But never 
mind, Matilda. (Brightening.) It is never too late to 
mend, and we members of the Polly-William Club (smil- 
ingly, inclvding all with her arm) will give you the nicest 
kind of a wedding. Even Bridget, here, will help, won't 
you, Bridget? 

Bridget — (unable to keep her feet from dancing) 
Shure, shure, dear lady, I'll work me fingers to the bone 
and be there with bells on. 

(All laugh. Somebody starts to whistle a wedding 
march. All follow suit, except Dr. S. and Matilda. He 
takes her arrn and marches across the room to tune of 
Tnarch. Mrs. W. shows signs of weariness and Dr. S. 
notices it and turns to the club.) 

Dr. — Come now, Polly-Bills. We've had a royal ev- 
ening — and a wonderful one, but we mustn't tire our 
Chief Lady out with the fun. Once more' — everybody. 
Give us your Polly-Bill motto, and then we'll say good- 
night. Come on, Matilda — I think we know it, too. (He 
takes her hand in his. Everybody joins in spiritedly, 
even Mrs. W., loho is surrounded by club, with Jack be- 
side her, leading.) 

Be jolly! Be happy! Be glad! 
Make other lives bright that were sad! 
. Do your best to keep cheerful. 
And never be fearful. 
For life is a game — make it glad! 



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V^ 



